Europe-wide assault on musculoskeletal disorders launched

The European Union launched a campaign this month called ‘Lighten the Load’, to raise awareness of how to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) at work.

The campaign is being run by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work and will provide information and organise a good practice awards scheme for organisations that have been outstanding and innovative in tackling MSDs.

The campaign will cover all stresses on the body including environmental factors, the loads being carried, pace of work and stress. It will also emphasise the importance of retention, rehabilitation and return-to-work programmes.

At the launch the EU employment commissioner said that MSDs needed to be tackled because of the ageing workforce and the need for people to work longer and to increase productivity.

The campaign culminates with the European Week for Safety and Health at Work from 22 to 26 October and the winners of the awards will be announced in March 2008.